JAMIE CARRAGHER has issued a huge thank you to the people of Merseyside as he revealed his dream of raising £1m for charity from his testimonial came true.

Liverpool’s vice-captain was returning to normality today after an unforgettable weekend that saw the Reds beat Everton 4-1 in the game to commemorate his Anfield career.

Though he was happy with the result, Carragher was more concerned about securing funds for his 23 foundation and thanks to a crowd of 35,682 turning up at Anfield, followed by a gala dinner at BT Convention Centre on Saturday night, charities in the area will benefit in the future.

Carragher, who scored penalties for both teams, was also delighted that Everton provided the opposition for an event that took huge organisation.

“It was a brilliant weekend and I can’t thank everyone enough for helping make it happen,” said Carragher.

“It was great that David Moyes brought Everton across and it was a good game.

“I was delighted Michael Owen got a good reception, as he didn’t have to come back. It took a bit of courage and it was nice that were so many old faces involved.

“Everyone understands the situation with Michael (playing for Manchester United) and he realised that he might take a bit of stick. He probably did at the start of the game.

“But, obviously, the aim was to try to raise £1m and it’s brilliant we did that.

“It’s all going to benefit charities in Liverpool and things could not have worked out better. It wasn’t about me.”

Carragher’s focus will now quickly turn to the Premier League fixture at Birmingham next Sunday but preparations won’t step up a gear until Liverpool’s international players return to Melwood.

Boss Roy Hodgson will be keeping an eye on all his star men, not least Fernando Torres, who has flown to Argentina with Spain’s squad after scoring twice in Friday’s win 4-0 over Liechtenstein.

“I feel better every day after the injury, with more rhythm and the goals give me a lot of confidence,” said Torres.

“It’s always nice to be on these lists and it makes me proud to be here and to continue scoring, although the most important thing is the three points and that we’ve played.”

Meanwhile, Dirk Kuyt has admitted discussions took place last month with Inter Milan over a possible move to be reunited with former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez.

He said: “I cannot deny there were negotiations with Inter. It was pleasing to be courted by such a prestigious club, led by the coach who brought me to England and with whom I still have a splendid rapport.

“However, Liverpool declared I was not for sale and I am in any case happy to have stayed in the Premier League.”